When it comes to violent encounters, we (The Police) start at a disadvantage. That’s right…We are the “underdog”, the “short stack at the table”, the “Cinderella.” The bad guy always has the jump on us….Why??
First, a guy who assaults a cop is wired entirely different than you or me. He most likely spent the majority of his life getting over on people and has no concept or concern about consequences. He feels neither guilt nor pity and is completely void of sympathy. The only thing that matters in his life is himself and “feeling good.” On the other hand, the least of our concerns are ourselves. We focus on our families and colleagues. We are professionals that have a lot vested in our career. The odds always favor the guy with nothing to lose. We have everything to lose!!! And unfortunately that can severely affect our mindset.
Second, the bad guy has more experience. A quick question; Who has been in more real fights? A) A Police Officer who grew up in a great home, in suburbia, and whose prior experiences with violence was limited to the frat house push matches and Steven Seagal movies (this is me) or B) A career criminal (I hear they fight sometimes in prison). These guys are more comfortable and better at violence than we are.
Last, is “intent.” The bad guy has in his mind a plan of action. This plan often includes an assault option that he has already approved in his mind. Therefore, his starting point is combat mode. In contrast, we spend the majority of our time serving the community and dealing with good people who need our help (this is especially true in small town departments). So, we need to throw that switch from our starting point of community service to true enforcement. This can result in costly hesitation.
So, how do we level the playing field??
Mental rehearsal is one option. Going through scenarios helps your mind prepare for the fight, thus limiting reaction lag time.
Have a commanding presence. In these situations, being a “nice guy” is way overrated. Be “no-nonsense” when dealing with individuals who make you the least bit uncomfortable. You can always go up the kindness ladder if necessary. Set parameters for their behavior in your mind. If they break them, act decisively, act first, and act aggressively.
Control the environment. Dictate their actions small and large. Their inability to comply with the simplest order may tip you off to future noncompliance. And again, always have the bigger team. Keep the ratio at least 2-1 in favor of the Blue Team. If you are the least bit uncomfortable, 3-1 is better.
Good Luck.
Det. Ed Kane
Ed Kane is an Upper Saddle River, NJ Detective, Defensive Tactics instructor and a Self Defense Company Guardian Instructor
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5 comments:
Thanks, these blogs always give useful information.
Thanks, these blogs always give useful information
Here's a thing.
I invite anyone who doesn't understand the power of commanding presence, fast shutdown, BUT who is familiar with the web to do the following:
find a political, or religious, or other hot-button (abortion, 9/11, healthcare) topic you are solid in your viewpoints on, and seek out a few opposing forums, or blogs, whatever. You are looking for fighting space. This does not make you a "troll" it makes you a researcher.
Post your contrary opinions, but as though you are a genuine person seeking approval - all outspoken yet insecure, hoping each time for a concession, respect, a chance to have your say, or connect.
The internet takes away those civilised ameneties we all hope for in our day-to-day lives (which, usually they are there) - and, they're the ones that are GONE during an assault, a fight, your rape or your mugging.
Watch it unfold online, keep going, keep trying to win an ally, or trying to get a concession from your most virulent enemy (and there WILL be one pack leader) - see how vicious, how LOW, how ugly people get.
And then, tell yourself that you live in a world where you can talk your way out of trouble every time, and reflect upon how talk has helped you with this?
Try it before you slam this comment! ;)
Anonymous, thanks for the unsolicited advice. Which is always as welcome as a fart in church. First, I have to say that anyone who posts anonymously can not be taken seriously for obvious reasons. Other than the condescending tone of your life lesson email, I gather that you're a person of good nature but a bit naive
Your quote:
"And then, tell yourself that you live in a world where you can talk your way out of trouble every time, and reflect upon how talk has helped you with this?"
You have obviously never faced an enemy combatant on the battle field or have to go through a door to make an arrest. You obviously never had to deal with a strung out junkie or a serial rapist. Hey, I'm sure you never even had to fight off a frat boy who had a little too much to drink and wants nothing more than to get into your pants.
While there are people who can be "talked out of it" in the harsh cold, cruel world of what I like to call...reality, it happens all the time. Turn on the news! Listen, I'm the only one that will give it to you straight: if you are forced to defend yourself and your loved ones then you better be prepared to do what ever it takes. I'll leave the "can't we all just get along" comments to people like you.
Anonymous, I don't write responses or blogs to convince you, I'm talking to the person who is reading this post and realizes, "Shit, that guy has something". As for contrary opinions... you obviously never read my "HATE MAIL" section on the "FACE PUNCH" SDTS TRAINING Forum. http://theselfdefenseco.madmooseforum.com/
I tell you, the path of the pacifist is that of a coward. While you should always seek alternative solutions there will come a time when the rubber hits the road. I'm only interested in helping people who help themselves, the same type of people who have the balls to put their name on a post.
Awesome awesome awesome! We’re all waiting for your next article of course.
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